Megan Thee Stallion pays tribute to Britney Spears' performance with Python at the 2024 MTV VMAs

Megan Thee Stallion channeled her inner 2000s pop icon at the 2024 MTV VMAs on Wednesday, September 11.

The 29-year-old “Mamushi” rapper hosted the evening at the UBS Arena in New York and greeted Britney Spears right after the show began with one of her many outfit changes.

After a commercial break, Megan took the stage in a daring green bikini top with a teal skirt tied into metallic shorts. Although her look included a pair of stunning gold boots, the yellow real python wrapped around her neck was the most epic piece of her ensemble.

Spears famously wore the same outfit, including a python, during her “I'm a Slave 4 U” performance at the awards ceremony in 2001.

In her version, Megan refused to act cool. Instead, she appeared extremely nervous and had her mouth wide open as she walked on stage.

“Okay!” she said. “Stop the music, stop the music. I'm just playing, come and get this snake!”

She made it clear that she did not want to get into trouble with the giant reptile, adding: “I do not know this snake, and this snake does not know me.”

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She let out a loud scream as crew members came to remove the snake. Visibly relieved, she paced back and forth for a few seconds before telling the audience, “I was trying to hold onto it for Britney.”

Before the show, Megan, who walked the red carpet in a glamorous strapless black dress, black bodysuit and sheer skirt with dramatic folds, told PEOPLE exclusively how excited she was to change her look several times during the show.

“I'm looking forward to changing clothes 500 times. I'm looking forward to performing. I'm looking forward to seeing all the hotties,” Megan said.

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“I love New York and can't wait to be back there and try all the food. And I'm excited to see what I can offer people as a host,” added the Grammy winner.